1919 armchair by Poltrona Frau in Pelle Frau® leather, handcrafted capitonné back, Italian luxury design

1919 | Armchair

Renzo Frau

Starting from
€ 8.652

Each “1919” armchair is numbered. The supporting structure is made from solid seasoned beech. The seat, backrest and armrest spring system consists of hand-tied steel biconical springs attached to jute belts. The seat is padded with rubberised horsehair while the backrest and armrests are in hand-shaped vegetable horsehair. The seat cushion is in goose down. The backrest design is obtained with manual capitonné processing. The castors and metal parts (plate holder arm, ashtray and number plate) can have a gold or gunmetal grey finish. The “1919” armchair is available in two versions: without plate and with ashtray plate or cup holder (both of which can be mounted on the left or right).

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1919 | Armchair

Renzo Frau
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Visuals shown are for illustration purposes only. Actual finish and/or pattern may vary due to unique characteristics of natural raw materials

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Finishing of the metal parts

Upholstery Info

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Concept and Design

The “1919” armchair, named after the year in which it was designed, is actually archived under the code “128”. It is thought that it was custom-designed by Renzo Frau for Filiberto Ludovico of Savoy, Duke of Pistoia. Despite being commissioned by a specific customer, it became one of Poltrona Frau’s first and biggest public successes. Reinterpretation of the classic bergère model, compared with its progenitors the “1919” adds the strength of its characteristic capitonné, used for the backrest. Other details include the addition of a special extension to use as a footrest and a little optional bookstand with arm, designed to hold the ashtray of the Duke, a famous cigar smoker. 

renzo frau
Designed by
Renzo Frau

Lorenzo Frau, known as ‘Renzo’, was born in Cagliari in 1881. He left Sardinia for military service in Milan, which he completed successfully earning the title of lieutenant. He married Savina Pisati and moved to Turin, at the time a real hub of Italian culture. He initially worked as a sales representative for Gribaudi and then for Dermoide Patent, manufacturer of faux leather. Having moved to Great Britain for work, he was able to discover the Chesterfield model armchairs and immediately imagined its potential, successfully starting to import it into Italy. At the same time, however, he was also attracted by the models of French and Central European style. He therefore decided to create his own artisan production laboratory. It was 1912: Poltrona Frau was created. From the initial work ‘in style’, Frau quickly moved onto direct design. Poltrona Frau became not only a production pole, but also a meeting point for artists and intellectuals. Renzo Frau used these relations to consolidate the brand image: successful models ensued quickly, one after the other. As the First World War broke out, Frau was called to fight for his country and his wife Savina bravely took up the reins of the company. Frau’s armchairs thus began entering the most important buildings, also used by the royal family. Renzo Frau met an early death in 1926. He left an extensive archive of projects that would allow his wife to coherently pursue Poltrona Frau production in the years to come.

Coverings and finishes

Dimensions
01 1919 armchair 5145111
02 1919 armchair with glass holder 5145111
03 1919 armchair with plate 5145111
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01 layout 1919 armchair
02 layout 1919 armchair
03 layout 1919 armchair
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The “1919” armchair by Poltrona Frau represents an authentic symbol of Italian craftsmanship and design, capable of adapting to a wide variety of settings and styles thanks to its history, refined finishes, and extensive customization options.

 

Originally designed for a royal commission, this armchair has successfully crossed the decades, becoming an icon not only for lovers of classic furnishings but also for those who wish to introduce a strong, distinctive element into contemporary interiors. Its hand-crafted capitonné backrest, solid beechwood structure, padding made of vegetal horsehair and goose down, and Frau® leather available in a wide range of colors and textures make the 1919 an ideal choice for those seeking absolute comfort and superior-quality materials.

 

It is not merely a seat, but an object that tells stories, enriches the space, and engages in dialogue with those who choose it. In a spacious living room of a private residence, the armchair can become the focal point of a conversation area, perhaps paired with an elegant fireplace or a coffee table. Its presence is equally striking in professional studios, libraries, or executive offices, where the desire for a sophisticated atmosphere meets the need for a comfortable seat for long hours of reading, work, or reflection.

 

Cigar or whisky enthusiasts can appreciate the version with a glass holder or ashtray, perfect for creating a corner dedicated to relaxation and life’s small pleasures. The 1919 armchair also lends itself beautifully to high-end contract environments: luxury hotels, airport lounges, fashion boutiques, showrooms, and corporate representative spaces find in this piece an ally to communicate exclusivity, attention to detail, and a strong design culture. Thanks to the possibility of customizing metal finishes and upholstery, each armchair can be made unique and perfectly integrated into the interior design project.

 

Equally important is the value this armchair holds for collectors of historic design objects or for those wishing to give a timeless gift on the occasion of anniversaries, retirements, or significant life milestones. Its strong visual presence also makes it a preferred choice for photo shoots, film productions, or vintage and retro settings. Those living in internationally styled homes with natural materials such as wood and leather will find the 1919 an ideal complement for creating a warm and welcoming environment without sacrificing a touch of exclusivity.

 

Likewise, anyone seeking an intimate reading corner, perhaps near a large window or in a room dedicated to relaxation, can enjoy the ergonomics and support of a seat designed for maximum well-being. The armchair is also suitable for families with children or adults who value quality and wish to invest in an object that will last over time while retaining its charm.

 

Finally, the wide color palette allows it to be placed in very different contexts: from minimalist interiors to eclectic spaces, from dark and enveloping environments to bright and colorful rooms. In summary, the 1919 armchair by Poltrona Frau is much more than a piece of furniture: it is a statement of style, a promise of handcrafted comfort, and a symbol of history and culture that is renewed every day through daily use, offering endless possibilities for customization and adaptation to different needs, tastes, and lifestyles.